In most cases the Kraft paper material is used for the placemats. About 50 percent of Americans believe that the use of placemats in dining restaurants can keep contamination down.

Placemats can easily protect against harmful contamination. But that’s not the only benefit as these paper placemats also help protect your table from accidental food spills. That will potentially save you from costly damage and expensive repairs in the future.

When you walk into a restaurant or even set up a party at home the fancy placemats are one of those small details that make a big difference. But they aren’t made solely from FDA-approved kraft paper other materials are also used in their production. Let’s learn a little more about the paper used for placemat manufacturing.

Types of Paper Used for Decorative Paper Placemats

If we talk about the most preferred choice of placemat it’s FSC-certified kraft paper placemats. They are eco-friendly and help reduce contamination making them a safe option for restaurants, cafes, and many other food-serving places. But there are many other material options as well, such as:

Kraft Paper for Placemats

Kraft paper is one of the most popular choices for placemats. It’s known for its natural brown color strength and eco-friendly appeal. You can choose the placemats for your food brand with uncoated sides in kraft material. It also holds ink well so logo designs or simple patterns can be printed on it without issues.

Parchment Paper for Paper Placemats

Parchment is not just used as custom food paper for baking it’s also used for placemat manufacturing. Its simple grease-resistant surface makes it a practical choice in restaurants where oily or saucy foods are served.

Wax Paper for Paper Placemats

Some paper placemats are made from wax-coated paper that has a light finish either glossy or matte. This coating makes the placemat more resistant to moisture and gives it a polished look. Restaurants that use coated paper placemats often do so because they want vibrant prints. But for a minimal look still Kraft is a suitable choice for you.

Greaseproof Paper for Paper Placemats

Greaseproof paper is another common material used for placemats especially in places where food spills and oil stains are a concern. As the name suggests this paper has a special barrier that prevents grease and moisture from soaking through. They are also printable so businesses can still add logos offers or designs without losing the protective quality. But specifically for the fried food many fast-food outlets prefer combining placemats with custom fry paper to line trays and serve fries in a clean and branded manner.

Coated and Uncoated Sides of the Paper Placemats Are a Matter of Concern

When buying custom paper placemats you have to ask yourself if you want the paper placemats with coating on one side or both or if just uncoated sides will work best for you. Because many of the paper placemat providers will ask you beforehand as they offer printing on both sides or a single side front or back plus with or without coating.

But it is generally recommended to coat only one side as it is a safer option to use in places where food is included.

Thickness and Weight Considerations for the Paper Placemats

When choosing paper for placemats thickness is as important as type. Paper weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter). So the ideal thickness can range from 0–120 GSM for papers.

The right thickness depends on how long the placemat is expected to last and the kind of impression the business wants to leave on customers.

Printing on Paper Placemats Will Be a Source of Branding

The choice of eco friendly paper placemats also affects printing. Restaurants often use placemats as a branding tool by printing logos menus or promotional offers on them. Children’s activity placemats with puzzles and coloring spaces are another example that can be done on these paper place mats. Moreover for restaurants that serve burgers using custom burger paper alongside paper placemats can enhance branding and provide a cohesive dining experience.

Concluding Thoughts

Paper used for the placemats is of several types depending on the style budget and your purpose. But one recommended and most preferred is kraft paper because it offers strength and an eco-friendly vibe. In the end it’s up to you what option of material you prefer.